take chances

[keannu]

Can I replace "take chances" with "take a chance"? Do the two mean the same thing? Does take in eithe case mean "risk"?

mo36)Some people have the view that sometimes in life we have to take chances in order to make progress. I admire such people. It certainly takes courage to take risks. But I am the type who likes to keep life safe. Maybe it’s due to my upbringing. People like me believe in the saying, “ A bird in the hand is worth two in the bush. ” Although such a lifestyle may, at times, be boring, it keeps me out of trouble. I also admit that my lifestyle is not as colorful or exciting as other people’s, but at least it gives me a sense of security

 

[5jj]

There is no significant difference, though the plural form clearly suggests that people might 'take a chance' more than once.

 

[BobK]

:up: ... and 'take <possessive-pronoun> chances' means something different (not 'make the most of an opportunity' but 'see what happens':

Example

A Why are you going to John's?
B Because he's sure to ask me to stay for dinner and I love his fish and chips.'
A But he might not be cooking fish tonight.
B Oh well - I'll go anyway and take my chances.

b